Whenever I would publish my app (or an update) on the Android Play Store, it seemed like it would be available almost immediately, which hints at the absence of review process.

Also, I've never had to have a discussion with any "reviewer" about my app on Android. For iOS, I've always had to do quite a few back and forth interactions with the "Resolution Center".

Android seems to be a pass through, perhaps after some automated checks are passing.

As mentioned by others, you don't necessarily have to publish to the Play Store: apps can be side-loaded on Android.